The debut of the ‘Best African Music Performance’ category at the 66th GRAMMY Awards marks a monumental moment in music history. Whoever wins this historic award of the African 2024 Grammy Nominees will put their name in the annals of music greatness.
The addition of this category to the 2024 GRAMMYs signifies a significant stride for African music, both commercially and culturally. Shawn Thwaites, a key figure at the Recording Academy, emphasized how this move celebrates the rich blend of African music.
Afrobeats and Amapiano Dominate the Grammys
The Grammys have a storied legacy with African talent, spanning from legends like Ali Farka Touré to contemporary sensations like Wizkid. This year, the spotlight shines brightly on Nigerian Afrobeats maestros Burna Boy, ASAKE, Davido, and Ayra Star, all vying for the prestigious honor.
While Afrobeats dominates the scene, this year witnesses an intriguing shift with the genre’s luminaries embracing the infectious rhythms of Amapiano, the South African-born house variation captivating clubs worldwide, from London to Lagos.”
The lineup for Best African Music Performance showcases the genre’s dynamism: ASAKE & Olamide’s ‘Amapiano,’ Burna Boy’s ‘City Boys,‘ Davido feat. Musa Keys with ‘UNAVAILABLE,’ Ayra Starr’s ‘Rush,’ and Tyla’s ‘Water’ redefine excellence in African music.
This category not only honors the influence of African sounds but also highlights their vast global resonance. Icons like Burna Boy, ASAKE, and Davido underscore the undeniable impact of Afrobeat, Amapiano, and other African genres on the world stage.
Beyond this category, African 2024 Grammy Nominees make waves across diverse nominations. Burna Boy’s collaboration with 21 Savage, ‘Sittin’ On Top Of The World,‘ shines in ‘Best Melodic Rap Performance.’ Their influence expands further into ‘Best Global Music Performance’ and ‘Best Global Music Album,’ where Burna Boy, Davido, and other talents secure well-deserved recognition.
Nigerians African 2024 Grammy Nominees
| Artist | Nominations |
| Burna Boy | – “Sittin’ On Top Of The World” for Best Melodic Rap Performance – “I Told Them…” for Best Global Music Album – “Alone” for Best Global Music Performance – “City Boys” for Best African Music Performance |
| Davido | – “Timeless” for Best Global Album – “Unavailable” for Best African Performance – “Feel” for Best Global Music Performance |
| Olamide & Asake | – “Amapiano” for Best African Music Performance (First-ever nominations for both artists) |
| Ayra Starr | – “Rush” for Best African Music Performance |
| Fireboy DML | – Contributions to Jon Batiste’s “World Music Radio” nominated for Album of the Year |
| CKay | – Work on Janelle Monáe’s “The Age of Pleasure,” nominated for Album of the Year |
| Tems | – Contribution to Rihanna’s “Lift Me Up” |
South Africa’s African 2024 Grammy Nominees (Trevor Noah, Tyla and Musa Keys)
Excitement fills the air as South African luminaries Tyla, Musa Keys, and Trevor Noah join an array of international talents on the list of nominees for the 66th Grammy Awards, set to dazzle Los Angeles on February 4, 2024.
Annually, the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences nominates deserving artists across various categories for consideration. With over seventy-five awards presented, this year unfolds with fresh fervor, introducing the intriguing Best African Music Performance category.
Tyla’s nomination for her sensational track ‘Water’ and Musa Keys’ collaboration on Nigerian star Davido’s ‘Unavailable’ stand out among five nominees, a testament to the enthusiastic reception of South African talent on the global stage.
Tyla’s nomination follows a recent triumph at the African Entertainment Awards USA, while Musa Keys was honored at the inaugural Trace Awards in Rwanda.
Renowned comedian, TV host, and author Trevor Noah received recognition for his comedic prowess, securing a nomination in the Best Comedy Album category for his stand-up show ‘I Wish You Could’. Noah, a previous winner of accolades like the MTV Africa Music Award, a Primetime Emmy Award, and numerous NAACP Image Awards, has hosted the Grammy Awards in 2021, 2022, and 2023.
These three nominations echo South Africa’s vision to be an inspiring global brand, radiating excellence and evoking national pride as the country unites in support of these talents on their journey to the Grammys.
Amidst the celebrations, reflections on past South African Grammy winners, including Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Soweto Gospel Choir, Black Coffee, David Arkenstone, Wouter Kellerman, Ricky Kej, Zakes Bantwini, and Nomcebo Zikode, remind us of the profound global appreciation for South African talent.
1. Davido ft Musa Keys
The anticipation culminates as Davido’s Grammy nominations elicit jubilation among his supporters, marking a significant milestone for the star. His 2017 track “Fall” holds the distinction of being the first African record to achieve gold certification in the US. It was swiftly followed by his previous hit “If.” These accomplishments underscore the Nigerian Afrobeats icon’s impact on the global music scene, setting the stage for his nominations in three categories at the 2024 Grammys.
His chart-topping anthem “UNAVAILABLE,” featuring South African producer Musa Keys, earns a nod for Best African Music Performance. The vibrant and lively dance track champions a life of harmony. Despite a series of personal highs and lows, Davido has chosen to retreat from the limelight, redirecting his focus solely on music while avoiding controversies. The infectious chorus of “UNAVAILABLE” has solidified its status as a staple at parties and has sparked captivating remixes by artists like Latto and Sean Paul.
2. Burna Boy
Burna Boy, following his Grammy win in 2021 for Best Global Music Album with his fifth studio release, “Twice As Tall,” emerges with a remarkable four nominations for the 2024 Grammy Awards. Among these nods, his critically acclaimed Afro-fusion track “City Boys” contends for the esteemed Best African Music Performance accolade. This vibrant party anthem cleverly samples Jeremih’s hit single “Birthday Sex,” woven into a seamless, bass-driven rhythm. Despite earlier controversial comments by Burna Boy about Black Americans, the incorporation of the sample undoubtedly contributed to the song’s triumph. Overall, “City Boys” swiftly morphed into an anthem embraced by his followers, echoing the artist’s celebration of champagne, indulgence, women, and wealth.
3. Ayra
Ayra Starr, the Nigerian superstar, burst onto the music scene with an unwavering belief in her talent, and her trajectory speaks volumes about her journey. She proudly stands as the first female Nigerian musician nominated for Best African Music Performance, a testament to her burgeoning career. Her 2022 single “Rush,” initially gaining popularity in Nigeria, later surged in popularity on TikTok in 2023.
Since her debut in 2021, this 21-year-old singer-songwriter has wielded considerable influence in the music industry. Collaborating with renowned global artists like Kelly Rowland, Leigh-Anne Pinnock, and fellow Grammy nominee Tyla, Ayra Starr’s magnetic persona, distinctive style choices, and powerful vocals have captivated millions worldwide. As a result, “Rush” has soared onto charts worldwide, peaking at number 24 on the UK Singles Chart, further solidifying her impact on the global music landscape.
4. Asake and Olamide
Asake emerged as a prominent blockbuster artist within the African music scene of the current decade. The multifaceted talent, encompassing singing, songwriting, and dance, hails from Lagos and has traversed an impressive journey. While pursuing studies in theater at Obafemi Awolowo University, he became an unstoppable force. This included gracing renowned stages like the O2 arena. Renowned for his vibrant performances delivered in Yoruba, his native language, Asake is a notable figure in the Afrobeats genre, now clinching his debut Grammy nomination.
In 2022, Asake made a significant move by joining YBNL Nation, the record label owned by renowned Nigerian musician Olamide. Shortly after this association, he began making significant waves in the industry. “Amapiano,” a track featured on his second album titled “Work Of Art,” swiftly followed his debut release. This energetic single, featuring Olamide, stood out as one of the project’s highlights, garnering immense appreciation upon its release. Notably, it pays homage to the South African genre of the same name. Asake and Olamide mark their inaugural Grammy nomination together with the vibrant track “Amapiano.”
5. Tyla
Tyla, a South African actress, has been in the news for a while now. But with her global smash song “Water,” she not only broke through the glass ceiling but also set several records in the process. She and Musa Keys are the South African musicians nominated for the 2024 Grammy Awards’ Best African Music Performance category.
Thanks to its amazing choreography, which includes sensual hip and waist movements, “Water” went viral on TikTok. Tyla, who peaked at number 21, is now the youngest South African to ever chart on the Billboard Hot 100. She also becomes the first solo act from South Africa to chart after 55 years. As previously indicated, “Water” quickly became a global radio hit, peaked at number four on the UK Singles Chart, and charted in several other countries. It was also astonishingly the number-one song in New Zealand.
Congratulatory message from Temilade Openiyi (known as Tems)
Nigerian songstress Temilade Openiyi, better known as Tems, extended her congratulations to her fellow nominees, Ayra Starr and Tyla, for their Grammy nominations. This nod accompanies nominations for Nigerian music stalwarts Burna Boy, Davido, Olamide, and Asake.
Acknowledging the stiff competition in the category, Tems expressed her pride in both nominated artists. She highlighted the dedication and effort put in by Ayra Starr and Tyla, emphasizing their relentless belief and hard work, which brought her immense joy.
“Seeing these talented ladies succeed means everything because of their dedication and unwavering belief! I’m ecstatic and profoundly proud right now, sending huge congratulations.
Tems on Instagram
It’s truly well-deserved. More victories are on the horizon! @ayrastarr @Tyllaaaaaaa.”
Simultaneously, Tems secured another Grammy nomination for her contribution as a co-writer on Rihanna’s ‘Lift Me Up’ from “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever,” recognized in the Best Song Written for Visual Media category.
ALBUM OF THE YEAR
- Boygenius: “The Record”
- Janelle Monáe: “The Age of Pleasure”
- Jon Batiste: “World Music Radio”
- Lana Del Rey: “Did You Know That There’s a Tunnel Under Ocean Blvd”
- Miley Cyrus: “Endless Summer Vacation”
- Olivia Rodrigo: “Guts”
- SZA: “SOS”
- Taylor Swift: “Midnights”
RECORD OF THE YEAR
- Billie Eilish: “What Was I Made For?”
- Boygenius: “Not Strong Enough”
- Jon Batiste: “Worship”
- Miley Cyrus: “Flowers”
- Olivia Rodrigo: “Vampire”
- SZA: “Kill Bill”
- Taylor Swift: “Anti-Hero”
- Victoria Monét: “On My Mama”
Nominees for Best Song Written for Visual Media:
- Billie Eilish with “What Was I Made For?”
- Dua Lipa presenting “Dance the Night”
- Nicki Minaj & Ice Spice Featuring Aqua for “Barbie World”
- Rihanna contributing “Lift Me Up”
- Ryan Gosling’s “I’m Just Ken”
Nominated for Best Score Soundtrack for Visual Media (including film and television):
- John Williams for “The Fabelmans”
- John Williams for “Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny”
- Ludwig Göransson with “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever”
- Ludwig Göransson for “Oppenheimer”
- Mark Ronson & Andrew Wyatt for “Barbie”
How was the Best African Music Performance Grammy Category Created?
The discussions at the Recording Academy were concise yet pivotal. Acknowledging the significance of music from Africa, unanimous support echoed throughout. The conversation revolved around defining the category’s name and ensuring a comprehensive representation of the region’s diverse music.
With the recognition that encompassing every facet was unfeasible, our focus shifted to striking a balance. Naming the category aims for inclusivity to encourage broad participation, became the ultimate goal.
Grammy Line-up from East Africa
Rayvanny and music producer S2kizzy, hailing from East Africa’s Tanzania, stand out as the singular stars securing nominations. Their inclusion in the 2024 list is credited to their contribution to Maluma’s Album Don Juan, specifically through Mama Tetema. This marks a momentous achievement for the region on the global stage.
Vision for the Recording Academy in regards to African Music
Ghazi the CEO of the GRAMMY explained that his hope is for the Academy to continually uphold a respect for all musical forms.
“Evolving as we have in recent years, our adaptability to swiftly embrace new genres and emerging markets should remain a priority.”
There’s a vast array of music genres within Africa alone, spanning all 54 countries on the continent. To truly honor this diversity, a deeper exploration and recognition across various genres are necessary. Therefore, the institution expanding the scope to celebrate a wider spectrum of African and global music is perfect.
The future of the Recording Academy lies in its commitment to equity. It’s about recognizing music that’s making waves in our country. And also celebrating the rich blend of music from across the globe.
Bottomline
This introduction of a new GRAMMY category reflects the Recording Academy’s global commitment to supporting all music creators and professionals. Looking ahead, the question arises: where should the Recording Academy direct its global mission in supporting the international music community?
In this dynamic musical era, with fans having access to diverse genres from across the globe, the rise in international music is a major growth. Establishing a presence on every continent becomes crucial for the Recording Academy. Collaborating closely with burgeoning music communities worldwide and providing support to artists and creators helps to nurture talents. Thus making the African 2024 Grammy Nominees, under Best African Music Performance worth it.